WHAT IS MALLET FINGER?
Mallet finger occurs when the outermost joint of the finger is injured. With mallet finger, the tendon on the back of the finger is separated from the muscles it connects.
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES?
Commonly an athletic injury where basketball and baseball players routinely experience jammed fingers, but the injury can occur because of a crushing accident on the job or even because of a cut finger while working in the kitchen.
HOW TO PREVENT MALLET FINGER?
To prevent such injuries, take care when participating in activities, including athletic events. To prevent injuries from happening again to the same finger, leave the splint on for the entire time the doctor has recommended.
WHAT ARE THE TREATMENTS?
If the finger is not broken or cut, or if only a small fracture is present, the doctor applies a splint to the end of the finger so it remains extended. With a splint, the outermost joint on the injured finger is not bendable, but the rest of the finger is bendable. This splint needs to be worn for at least 6 weeks to ensure that the tendon is given the best chance of healing. Surgery is necessary if the tendon requires suturing to repair it.
Mallet Finger Specialist
